Nkurenkuru: Twenty-seven coaches completed the first NFA C Licence coaching course in Nkurenkuru from 8 to 18 December 2025, marking a significant milestone for football development in the Kavango West Region.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the course was conducted by NFA instructor and FIFA coach educator Pauhl Shakes Mallembu. Although the course fell short of its 37-participant target, it successfully addressed Namibia's coaching qualification deficit. Mallembu noted, "The NFA C licence coaching course officially started on the eighth of December, and completion came today, the 18th. We expected 37 participants, but fell short with 10, having 27 participants during the course."

The programme went beyond introductory levels by introducing participants to advanced coaching principles, with a strong emphasis on practical training session preparation. Coaches learned important skills such as identifying team problems and developing targeted solutions to address defensive or attacking weaknesses.

Graduate Paul Simon highlighted the programme's impact, stating, "The course was very informative. We learned a lot of things. Law of the game was one topic I mastered... I can confidently say I can coach a team that can win trophies." Simon also mentioned that his motivation stemmed from previous tournament losses against teams from Windhoek, which had affected his team's morale. The course increased his confidence, allowing him to envision "this region growing to produce proper footballers using all the skills we have."

The training addressed a critical need in Namibian football. Mallembu pointed out that many coaches currently operate without proper licensing, which hampers football development in the country and violates CAF conventions. Participants underwent comprehensive assessments, including practical field tests, theoretical examinations, basic nutrition and injury evaluations, as well as laws of the game tests across four components.

The course also highlighted a gender disparity, with only two female coaches participating. Mallembu emphasized the importance of involving more women in coaching careers, as they could attract young girls to the sport.

During the closing ceremony, Football Association Vice-Chairperson of Kavango West, Egidius Nambara, stressed the importance of practical application: "You are the lucky ones among many coaches able to attend. Let's implement and help the players." He added that coaching is an ongoing learning process, encouraging participants to continue learning despite the challenges.

Successful candidates will be invited to attend CAF C Licence training in March 2026, while others will have second opportunities through regional leadership programmes.